Battle of the Blues Top Performers: Defense

The annual Battle of the Blues between Cape Fear and Terry Sanford once again delivered intensity on both sides of the ball. While the final score tilted one way, the defenses fought relentlessly from start to finish, creating turnovers, big hits, and key stops that kept the crowd on its feet all night.    Davis was the heart and soul of the Colt defense and made his presence known from the opening snap. His physicality and instincts jumped off the field. He consistently shot gaps, blew up run lanes, and punished ball carriers behind the line of scrimmage. What separates Davis is how he diagnoses plays—he reads his keys fast and reacts even faster. Terry Sanford tried to account for him with double teams, yet he still managed multiple tackles for loss and a pair of sacks. Davis' motor and leadership are undeniable, and his play style screams college-ready linebacker with the versatility to play inside or out.     Leonard turned in a performance that showcased both his football IQ and toughness. He was a major reason why Terry Sanford's inside run game never found rhythm. Leonard controlled the box, timing his blitzes perfectly and slipping through creases before blockers could reach him. On film, you see a linebacker who plays with patience and leverage, forcing runners to bounce outside where help waited. He finished with several key tackles on third down, helping end multiple Bulldog drives. Leonard doesn't just make plays—he sets the tone for those around him.     Logan's impact was felt all over the field. Whether lined up on the edge or in space, he played with relentless energy and pursuit. His sideline-to-sideline range was exceptional, and he consistently pressured the quarterback, coming away with a couple of sacks. Logan has that hybrid build that makes him dangerous—fast enough to chase from the backside, strong enough to set the edge. He disrupted passing lanes, sealed the edge against the run, and brought a physicality that the Bulldog tackles struggled to match. His versatility gives him real next-level potential as an outside linebacker or edge rusher.     .Clifton was the most impactful defensive player for the Bulldogs and arguably one of the best overall athletes on the field. His first step off the line was explosive, and he brought non-stop pressure off the edge. Time after time, Clifton forced the quarterback to move his launch point, blowing up several plays before they could develop. He was also strong in pursuit, chasing runs to the boundary and finishing plays with physicality. What stood out most was his effort—there was no quit in him. Clifton's frame, quickness, and motor make him a legitimate college-level edge prospect with all-conference potential at the next level.     Williams played with confidence and swagger, and it showed in his production. He was all over the field, getting his hands on multiple passes and nearly coming away with a pair of interceptions. His closing speed on the ball is elite, and his instincts are what you want in a true cover corner. Williams was active in run support as well, coming downhill and making clean, physical tackles on the perimeter. He showed tremendous field awareness, staying disciplined while still taking calculated chances. His overall performance displayed the kind of all-around skill set that earns attention from college recruiters.

The annual Battle of the Blues between Cape Fear and Terry Sanford once again delivered intensity on both sides of the ball. While the final score tilted one way, the defenses fought relentlessly from start to finish, creating turnovers, big hits, and key stops that kept the crowd on its feet all night.